As you get older, your brain naturally begins to change. Older adults often experience problems with memory, multi-tasking, and attention span. However, aging doesn’t prohibit your brain from learning new things, creating new memories, or improving vocabulary and language skills. At the same time, stimulating brain activities can help reduce the risk of depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and other memory problems. Here are some easy ways to work your brain:
Learn Something New
Stay sharp by continually learning new skills. Sign up for an online course, pick up an instrument and take lessons, or read books that you normally might not be inclined to choose. The Internet also holds a vast collection of tutorials, video how-tos, and the like, so you can learn about nearly any topic under the sun – often, for free! No matter how you choose to go about it, it is never too late to learn a new skill or acquire new knowledge.
Get Good Sleep
A tired brain does not work well. Studies reveal that as you age, your brain has more difficulty forming short term memories during sleep. Sleeping gives your brain a chance to relax and process the events of the day so that you can remember what you did each day. Needless to say, it is important to get at least eight hours of sleep each night, especially sleep that is deep and resting. If you are having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep, talk with your doctor.
Make a Habit of Writing
Writing is a great activity that stimulates several parts of the brain. Researchers have found that handwriting is better than using a keyboard to write, as this stimulates areas of the brain that deal with thinking, language, and memory. Writing fiction, journaling, or composing a note to a friend are all great ways to work your brain. Plus, you might just make someone’s day by sending a letter or email message to a friend far away!
Aging doesn’t have to mean losing your mental agility. Stay sharp, no matter your age, when you use these tips from Westmount at Copper Mill Apartments in Houston, Texas.